Superintendent: ‘It’s time I hear from you’

As your new Gunnison Watershed School District superintendent, it’s time I hear from you.

Have you ever started a job and found yourself overwhelmed? It’s not the poor orientation, it’s that you don’t yet know the landscape or people. You wish the training could come after you’re established, so you can better envision the environment and tasks.

I’ve been superintendent for three months, so meeting you now will make what you have to say more meaningful.

Public education is changing faster than ever. Nationally and in our valley, decreasing birthrates mean less students and lower funding. We have to make changes based on our values, while meeting the needs of the next generation, who face technological, economic, social and political challenges.

That’s why it’s more important than ever that we stay connected and work together to shape the future of our schools.

You will see me around the valley, visiting classrooms, games, concerts and other events. When you do, come say hello. I want to hear what you're excited about, questions you might have and your ideas for making our schools even better.

If you find yourself curious about this next chapter of GWSD, my approach to leadership or have feedback to share, our team invites you to join a stop along the superintendent listening tour. I’ve included the times and dates here. Everyone is welcome, because successful education is a community effort.

I hope to meet you soon.

Here is the schedule:

Tuesday, Oct. 27, at Lake, from 8 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in the conference room;

Thursday, Oct. 29, at CBCS from 5:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the library;

Wednesday, Nov. 11, at GHS during parent-teacher conferences from 5:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. in the commons;

Thursday, Nov. 12, at Pathways (especially for the Spanish-speaking families), from 5:15 p.m. to 6:45 p.m.; and

Thursday, Nov. 19, at GCS during the ski extravaganza from 5:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the library.